Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hong Lei held a press conference on April 11, 2013.

Q: It is reported that global reinsurance companies have refused to provide cover for refineries processing Iranian crude oil. Have Chinese refineries been affected?

A: China's position on its economic, trade and energy cooperation with Iran is clear and consistent. Out of our own economic development needs, we have maintained normal energy cooperation with Iran, which is transparent and in conformity with UN Security Council resolutions. Such cooperation does not impair interests of the international community or other countries. As for the specific issue regarding Chinese enterprises' operation in Iran, please consult relevant enterprises.

Q: Many countries' leaders have expressed condolences or sympathy on the death of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. What are Chinese leaders' response?

A: President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang of the State Council have respectively sent a message of condolences to British Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister David Cameron to lament the death of Thatcher and express sincere condolences to her family.

Both leaders said in the messages that Thatcher was an outstanding British stateswoman with important international influence. She made important contribution to the peaceful solution of the Hong Kong issue and the development of China-UK relations.

Q: It is reported that on April 11, the Philippines charged 12 Chinese fishermen whose ship ran aground in Southwestern Philippine waters for poaching. What is China's comment?

A: The Chinese government has always attached great importance to safeguarding the safety and legitimate rights and interests of Chinese fishermen abroad, and also required them to operate according to law. Upon learning the detention of and litigation against the fishermen by the Philippines, the Foreign Ministry has instructed the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines to further verify the situation. We have also asked the Philippine side to fairly and properly deal with the case and adopt concrete and effective measures to ensure the safety and legitimate rights and interests of the Chinese fishermen. The Embassy has sent staff to the scene for a consular visit of the fishermen.

Q: How will China respond if the DPRK launches another missile?

A: The international community is gravely concerned about the current situation on the Korean Peninsula. It is the common aspiration of the international community to safeguard peace and stability on the Peninsula. We call on all parties concerned to truly meet the aspiration of the international community, avoid actions that may escalate the tension and push for the turnaround of the situation. Meanwhile, all relevant parties should bear in mind the long-term and overall interests, work for the resumption of the Six-Party Talks, enhance dialogue and engagement, press ahead with the denuclearization of the Peninsula and seek long-lasting peace and stability of the Peninsula and Northeast Asia.